Monterey: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Located on California's central coast, this city is known for its rich marine life, the world-renowned Aquarium, scenic views along the 17-Mile Drive, historic Cannery Row, and nice arts scene.
- Population
- 28,000
- Size
- 30 square km
- Airport
- Monterey Regional – domestic
- Train Station
- Monterey Station
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Monterey, located on California's central coast, is renowned for its rich marine life and historic Cannery Row. The city is a hub for marine research and home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a major attraction. Additionally, Monterey boasts a scenic coastline and the pleasant 17-Mile Drive, which offers nice views. However, the area can be quite expensive, especially in terms of housing and tourism. Additionally, the city's economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which may lead to seasonal fluctuations.
Traffic & Transport
The city experiences moderate traffic, with peak congestion typically occurring during the summer months when tourist activity is at its highest. For exploring the city, the best means of transport is by car, as it offers the most flexibility to visit various attractions at your own pace. Additionally, bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly option, with several rental shops available. Public buses are also available and provide a cost-effective way to navigate the main areas. For those preferring taxi services, reliable options include Yellow Cab and Black & White Taxi. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used and offer convenient booking through their mobile applications.
History
Originally inhabited by Rumsien Ohlone people, the area was first encountered by Spanish explorers in 1602. It was established as the capital of Alta California under Spanish rule in 1777, becoming a significant regional port and agricultural center. The city changed hands between Spain, Mexico, and the United States in the 19th century, playing a key role in the development of California. It was the site of the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican-American War in 1846. The city's cultural heritage is reflected in its historic adobe buildings, annual festivals, and diverse culinary influences.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Monterey over two days with this focused itinerary:
– First day: Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, stroll along Cannery Row, and enjoy the coastal views from Fisherman's Wharf. End your day with a sunset at Carmel Beach.
– Second day: Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visit the historic Carmel Mission, and browse the shops in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short driving distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Big Sur at 45 km: Famous for its lovely coastal views and scenic hiking trails.
– Carmel-by-the-Sea at 7 km: A charming town known for its art galleries, shops, and beautiful beach.
– Santa Cruz at 70 km: Offers a classic beach boardwalk, surfing spots, and a lively downtown.
– Pinnacles National Park at 80 km: Features unique rock formations, caves, and excellent hiking opportunities.
– Salinas at 30 km: Known for the National Steinbeck Center and its agricultural history.
Attraction
Known for its scenic coastline and rich marine life, this city offers a variety of attractions for tourists.
– Monterey Bay Aquarium: Renowned for its impressive marine exhibits and conservation efforts.
– Cannery Row: A historic waterfront street with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
– 17-Mile Drive: A scenic road offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and famous landmarks.
– Old Fisherman's Wharf: A lively area with seafood restaurants, shops, and whale-watching tours.
– Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: A beautiful park with hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
– Pacific Grove: Known for its charming Victorian homes and the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary.
Activity
In Monterey, travelers can enjoy coastal beauty, marine life, and outdoor adventures.
– Whale Watching: Observe whales in their natural habitat, including humpbacks and orcas.
– Kayaking in Elkhorn Slough: Paddle through a protected estuary, home to diverse bird species and sea otters.
– Scuba Diving at Breakwater Cove: Explore kelp forests, marine life, and underwater rock formations.
– Cannery Row Walking Tour: Learn about the history of the area and John Steinbeck's influence.
– Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley: Experience local wines in a scenic valley setting.
Cuisine
The city offers a diverse food scene with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that highlight the region's culinary heritage.
– Clam Chowder: Creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, and onions, often served in a sourdough bread bowl.
– Calamari: Fresh, locally-caught squid, often fried and served with dipping sauces.
– Artichoke Dishes: Various preparations of artichokes, a local specialty, including grilled, stuffed, or in dips.
– Abalone: A rare and prized shellfish, often prepared grilled or in steaks.
– Sand Dabs: Small, tender fish, typically pan-fried and served with lemon and butter.
– Ghirardelli Chocolate: Famous chocolate treats from the nearby Ghirardelli factory, including bars and hot fudge sundaes.
Shopping
One of the best shopping experiences in the city is visiting Cannery Row, where you can find a variety of shops offering everything from souvenirs to high-end clothing. A popular gift to purchase is local artisanal goods, such as handcrafted jewelry or gourmet food items that reflect the coastal culture. Another great option is to buy a bottle of wine from the nearby vineyards, which are renowned for their quality. The local art galleries also offer unique pieces by local artists, perfect for a memorable gift.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the renowned Monterey Jazz Festival, one of the longest consecutively running jazz festivals in the world. It is also home to the Monterey Museum of Art, which focuses on California art from the 19th century to the present. Another cultural highlight is the historic Golden State Theatre, which offers a variety of live performances including music, comedy, and theatre. Additionally, the city celebrates its maritime heritage with the annual Whalefest event.